撃つ

1. Origins, structure, and basic meaning

• Structure: 撃つ is read as うつ and is a transitive verb meaning to fire a bullet or attack a target with a gun or similar means.
• Basic usage: The projectile is the object in 合図の弾を撃つ, while the target is the object in 遠くの標的を撃つ; both use を.

2. Common pitfalls and similar expressions

• Target and projectile
  • 弾を撃つ takes what is fired as its object, while 標的を撃つ takes what is attacked or aimed at.
• Difference from 打つ
  • Although both can be read うつ, 打つ broadly covers hitting or striking, while 撃つ clearly denotes shooting or attacking with a weapon.